Inspiration in Times of Adversity

Much of my coaching and training work over the years can be summarized in a couple of words: “psychology” and “relationships.” I’m over simplifying it, but I’ve seen lives change and careers skyrocket based on one’s predominant thoughts; i.e., psychology, confidence and inspiration, and the strength of one’s relationships — how we relate to others and they relate to us.

How can we use these two concepts, and inspire ourselves in these times, on the job or during a stressful job search? How can we shift our perspective from varied degrees of loss, fear and uncertainty to “accepting” our circumstances and creating inspiration? It’s easier said than done, and this isn’t new news. But let’s look at it from a different angle with five “mind shifters” that have worked for me and my clients……

1. Attitude = Altitude….
Whether we recognize it or not, business associates, peers and leaders are always assessing our attitude, perseverance, “stick-to-it-iveness,” openness to change, especially in the wake of business challenges, limited career options, a long and arduous job search. We need not be driven solely by what others think, but in the workplace we win points, our value increases, others see this positive behavior and want to associate and work with us. Often we don’t recognize this relationship dynamic; it’s a must in the job search, interview and network process. How do others see you as viewing change? What actions can you take to be more “accepting” of these changes?

2. Be an inspiration to others……
During times of change and adversity we oftentimes take ourselves for granted, especially in the peaks and valleys of corporate America. Some days we’re feeling like we’re on the fast track and then there are days where it seems that the rug has been pulled out. During the latter, recognize that not only does attitude = altitude, but that others depend on us to be an example. Family, friends and associates see inspiration and determination in us when we don’t see it. Are you an inspiration to others? What can you can do to be more of an inspiration?

3. “And this too shall pass”…..
We know of the cycles of personal change (ending, neutral zone, new beginning). The stages are as varied as the authors, but for every change, loss or adversity, something has to “end;” i.e., a relationship, career path, position. At the exact time of this “ending”, exists the potential for a “new beginning” and an opportunity for growth, to overcome a challenge. Moving from an “ending” to “new beginning” is no easy task. Working through the roller coaster of emotions, we ultimately come out the other side of this cycle, “accepting” change and realizing our lessons. But remember, “this too shall pass”, for our work life is but an endless cycle of “endings” and “new beginnings.” What are the endings that you’re facing? What “new beginnings” inspire you?

4. Focus on your Opportunities……
Where do you focus your thoughts and energy? Do you focus on “endings” and losses, or on your possibilities and “new beginnings?” Some researchers say that we have as many as 50,000 thoughts on any given day and our success depends on where we place those thoughts. Limit your intake of the daily dose of depressing TV and news shows; surround yourself with possibility thinkers, positive relationships and reading. On what are you focusing? How can you improve your focus?

5. Visualize Success……..
Many of the most successful business professionals, leaders and athletes use a form of visualization to experience, in their mind, a goal, activity or coming event. Scientists say that the exact same muscles fire in an athlete’s “mental rehearsal” as they would in the actual event. When you rehearse and experience that planned new job, promotion or successful interview in the here and now, you begin to program yourself for success and inspiration.

Create inspiration in times of adversity and use these five psychology/relationship “shifters” to change your perspective, build value, confidence and focus on “new beginnings.”

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Gary Recchion

With more than 25 years of “in the trenches” experience in human resources, Gary has refined a results-driven approach to executive coaching that combines personal marketing, positive psychology, faith/spirit and principles of quantum physics. Read more